145 | A Nutrition Framework for Depression & Anxiety

145 | A Nutrition Framework for Depression & Anxiety

From Exam Room Nutrition: Where Busy Clinicians Learn About Nutrition by Colleen Sloan, PA-C, RDN

February 25, 2026 · 23 min

About this episode

This episode discusses the relationship between nutrition and mental health, focusing on how food impacts mood and the importance of adequate nutrition in managing depression and anxiety.

Mental Health Nutrition Starts Here. When a patient opens up about their mood, we think therapy. We think medication. But do we ever pause and ask… are they eating enough to support their brain? In this episode, I’m joined by registered dietitian Jennifer Hanes, who specializes in nutrition and mental health. We unpack how food impacts mood, why under-eating can worsen anxiety and depression, and how clinicians can confidently talk about nutrition without oversimplifying it. You’ll lear...

People in this episode

Host: Colleen Sloan

Guest: Jennifer Hanes

Topics covered

  • nutrition
  • mental health
  • depression
  • anxiety
  • food impact on mood

Keywords

  • nutrition
  • mental health
  • depression
  • anxiety
  • food
  • mood
  • under-eating

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